May 19, 2016

This season
there are some definite HOT trends in the fashion world; things I am sure you
will want to embrace and bring a slice of into your wardrobes. Many of today’s
trends are carryovers from season’s past, and even years past. If you loved the
70’s, you are in luck!If you prefer a
more tailored, polished look, you are also in luck.

The “balance
of power” in fashion has us looming on both ends of the spectrum. The overall
theme in trends this season is a feeling of opposites. Romantic frills and
silhouette with a 70’s vibe balanced against a harsh and edgy feel inspired by
80’s-90’s street fashion. Here are 3 of the season’s fashion inspirational trends.

3 HOT SPRING TRENDS

Embrace your inner Latin Dancer

Influence
from Miami or a Latin feel in fashion is definitely prevalent this season.As part of this trend we see layered ruffle
skirts, off the shoulder and midriff baring tops with puffy sleeves and bold
Spanish feeling prints.Think flamenco
skirt with an open midriff.Specific notions of this trend include:

If you love
the idea of this trend, with its bold colors and romantic feel, be sure to pair
your favorite pieces with something more structured; specifically the Slip
Dress. By nature, this dress is borrowed from lingerie. Today’s slip dress is a
bit more structured, but not much. You don’t want to look like you’ve walked
out of the house wearing only your undergarments or nightgown, so pair this
dress with the proper foundation garments to keep everything “in check”. Balance
this sexy look with a structured jacket or sweater, and keep your footwear
light and airy, like the dress.

Politics in Our Closets

Fashion
trends mimic the state of world politics and the economy. Because this is such
a politically charged year, it isn’t really that surprising we are seeing that
influence in fashion.Power suits are
back with button front blouses. Stripes that have a nautical feel and finishing
touches that reminds us of military hardware. The feel is all-American. Details
that fit into the political influence trend include:

·Suiting
pieces – the power suit is back

·Stripes,
bold thicker stripes

·Boxy
Jackets

·Button
front shirts

·All
over denim (all Americana look)

·Patriotic
feel in color combinations (lots of red, white and blue)

·Chunky,
solid heels in footwear

Key Piece in this Trend: bold stripes and boxy jackets

What to Wear

The stripes
of today’s trendsetters are bold, thick flag-like stripes. If you are a petite
woman, be sure that the thickness of the stripe is in line with your stature.
These thick stripes can be easily paired with florals for an up-beat look. Be
sure to match intensity and hue of the colors. The boxy jacket when paired over
a plunging neckline is a dramatic look that will turn any politico’s head. Be
mindful of where the jacket hits on your silhouette so it doesn’t add width to
your shape.

It’s the 70’s moving to 90’s…again

For several
seasons we have seen the influence of the 70’s in the bohemian trend and
fringe. Well, it seems it is here to stay and here in a huge way! The political
trend feels very structured and planned, while the 70’s bohemian trend feels
the exact opposite – unstructured and easy.Lightweight, translucent fabrics, fringe and lace are paired with pieces
that feel very 90’s with minimalism, a grunge feel and even fanny packs (yes, I
said fanny packs). Pieces that play homage to this trend include:

·Long
earrings

·Wide
leg pants

·Tie
die

·Cold
Shoulder tops

·Shine,
shine and more shine – metallic fabrics and details

·Maxi
skirts and dresses

·Oversized
jackets and track suits

·Strappy
shoes, gladiator style sandals

·Suede,
especially in footwear

Key Piece in this Trend: open shoulder top

What to Wear

Cold
shoulder or open shoulder tops are very sexy and should probably not be brought
into the office. Be sure to wear your shoulder-baring top with the proper
undergarments, be sure to check your top from the front, side and back. Try a
stick on (strapless) bra with snap closure in the middle, and underwire
support.Many of the trendy
open-shoulder tops have a blouson silhouette. Be sure to balance this shape
with a slim pant or skirt, or ½ tuck your blouse to change the silhouette (tuck
in the front of your shirt, leave the back untucked). Longer necklaces seem to
work best with this style top.

A Final Word on This Season’s Trends…

There is so
much cross over in trends this season, fashionistas can bring pieces from last
spring/summer and easily transition them into this year’s wardrobes
seamlessly.Vintage thrift store finds
will fit nicely into current styles, and buying a few key pieces won’t break
the bank. When trying out these trends or fully embracing one of them, remember
my “style-rule-of-thumb”
in determining if a trend is for you; If you put something on and look in the
mirror and feel a question coming over your thoughts, the answer is no!Conversely, if you put something on look in
the mirror and instantly smile, stand a little taller and say to yourself “oh
yea!”, the answer is yes!

November 18, 2015

I just added more things to my Poshmark store. I think I have over 70 items for sale - some new, some gently loved, all pretty great deals! The best thing about Poshmark, is that you can make an offer. If the item is marked $50, and you think it's worth $35 - you can offer that other price, and barter! It's awesome!

Over the years, I have helped hundreds of women transform their wardrobes
into perfectly functional, fabulous collections of outfit options. There
is a common thread to all great wardrobes: a balance between basics and
statement pieces.After trying to remember all the things (and reasonswhy) that make up a great wardrobe, I have compiled a list. This list isn’t intended to be a “run out to the mall now and buy all these things”, but rather it should be viewed as a “work- in-progress checklist”.

PANTS

Jeans – something a little sassy, boot cut or flared. I suggest finding something with a bold contrast stitch on the inside of the leg.

Dark basic skinny jeans – these are an essential regardless of your age or personal style. The perfect skinny jean will do double duty as leggings and can be dressed up with a great jacket and heels.

Leggings – need I say more? I honestly think you should have several pairs of basic black leggings in your wardrobe: ankle length thicker fabric, knee length and one with something different (like leather or embellishment).

Trouser – call this your basic pant. Even for those of us who don’t wear pants very often, there is always an occasion we need a good pant that isn’t a jean. I suggest something in black.

TOPS

Denim Shirt – the denim shirt has made a strong comeback in fashion, and I am thrilled! The denim shirt should be a thinner fabric, and a long sleeve you can easily roll up. The denim shirt can dress down a very dressed up skirt, and is simply something that looks good on everyone.

White Blouse – another basic and something I searched a long time for. It is a good idea to have two white blouses: one that is a little longer (tunic length) that you can wear with leggings, and one that is a slimmer fit that would be perfect under a jacket or sweater.

White tee – when the white blouse is too much, try the white tee! Find something that is made of a good fabric (spend a little money on this) that fits you well (i.e. don’t buy it oversized).

Embellished Tee – for some this might be a striped tee, for others it might be something with some kind of sparkle on the front. Whatever your style personality, the embellished tee will be a favorite in your closet.

Cardigan – what color do you know looks amazing on you? Blue? Pink? THAT is the color you will need to find in a cardigan. Use as a layering piece to break up monochromatic looks.

Tunic – the tunic is something that you might be able to wear with leggings and flats, or with tights and boots. In the summer months, your tunic might be a great bathing suit cover up!

Chunky Sweater – Ya know those cold weekends when a warm sweater, boots and skinny jeans are perfect? THAT is the sweater you need in your closet.

Cami – If I am being honest, you probably need several camis. I wear one just about every day. Wear under those tops with plunging necklines (that might be a bit much for work) and of course, use as a layering piece.

JACKETS

Jean jacket – basic, no embellishment, looks chic with a pencil skirt and a crisp white blouse (of course with oodles of jewelry)

Basic Jacket – the basic jacket should be in your signature neutral color (brown, black or navy for example), and about hip length.

Leather Jacket – the great thing about leather is it has become very affordable. The faux-leather options are plentiful! Find a jacket that has some rugged details, maybe in a motorcycle style.

Chanel-esque Jacket – You know the style. This is something you could add in as an afterthought to your wardrobe, or be a key signature piece in your closet. It can be the thing that you wear when you need to look like a million bucks (with a pencil skirt), or be something you wear with jeans when your mood is a little sophisticated sassy.

Spa jacket – This is the thing I see missing from most wardrobes. A sporty jacket that you can wear when everything else seems to be too formal.

DRESSES

LBD – or LRD or LBD (you get the picture). A basic no frills dress that looks amazing on you. Something in a color that is perfect for your skin tone, which is easily dressed up or down.

Day Dress – I suggest a wrap dress. This style looks great on everyone and is very easy to find.

“Look At Me” Dress – A party dress (that isn’t black) with some kind of glitz and shine on it. This might be the thing you wear to a cocktail party or holiday party

SKIRTS

Pencil Skirt – the workhorse of your wardrobe. I suggest black. If a pencil skirt isn’t a style you are fond of, try an A-Line style

Patterned Skirt – maybe a tweed or floral, whatever your style dictates this is a skirt you love to live in.

Little Knit Skirt – or 2, or 3! This is the little black skirt you pull on with a tee and flip flops in the summer, or pair with tights and a sweater in the winter. It is what you want to wear when it is in the laundry.

UNDER THINGS

Bra wardrobe – A wise investment is to have a few great fitting bras. Skip the white ones (really…no need for them). Be sure you have at least 2 nude and 1 black bra. Convertible straps are a must!

Everyday pendant necklace – This is the necklace you wear just about every day, that you can layer with other things

Right Hand ring – Something big, bold that tells your style story. It might be a big flower, or a cluster of diamonds.

Stud earrings – Diamond, yes I am giving you permission to get a pair of diamond earrings (or glass that just looks like diamond studs). When you have no idea what earrings to wear, pull these out of your jewelry box. Trust me. I wear mine every single day (even to the gym).

Hoop earrings – When you want to make your outfit a little more casual, or you feel like your look just need a little something more, in walks the hoop earring.

Signet ring – I believe that this classic ‘initial ring’ is something every woman should have…and if you don’t, it would make a great gift. (hint, hint.)

HANDBAGS

Basic every day handbag – Something that is big enough that you can shove a bottle of water and a snack inside, but not so big that it could be mistaken for a gym bag.

Weekend clutch – This is something you can use with your LBD or jeans, white tee and sassy heels.

Power color purse – What is the dominant color in your wardrobe? Red? Blue? This is the color you need in a handbag. When you are in one of those “I am wearing all black” moods, use this to perk up your mood.

SHOES

Black pump – basic, timeless.

Boot in your signature neutral – Riding boots are something you will wear time and time again.

Non-athletic tennis shoe – Ya know those cute little flats that kinda look like tennis shoes but they really are more of a ballet flat? That is what you need.

Sassy heel – Something that makes you fees sexy and alive. And, it’s OK if you can only stand for 10 minutes and take 15 steps in them. You should be sitting in these shoes to show them off (wink!).

Stiletto with sparkle – I will admit I am a sparkly shoe addict. I have far too many. But I do wear them with everything! Wear with your sassy jeans and a basic tee on the weekend, and of course with your ‘Look At Me’ dress.

Neutral wedge – When you don’t know what shoes to wear, go for the neutral wedge!

Shoe-Bootie – This shoe is one of the season’s biggest style stories. Wear with everything, yes EVERYTHING (including skirts!)

Flip Flop – Make sure your flips are of a grown-up variety, something you can wear all day without worrying about the damage they might cause your feet.

You know I have a thing for finding amazing things at Thrift Shops and Consignment stores. Well, over the years this "thing" turned into - well - let's call it a Poshmark Store! Here you can make offers or buy your favorite designers. LOTS of great things on this site. Please join in the fun, and of course..shop my closet!

November 9, 2015

The holidays
are a time when we become one with our inner diva and confidentially wear all
the glitz our beings can handle. This season,
evening wear trends take a turn for the different. This might be the year you
invest in a few new party pieces in your winter wardrobe. Here are some trend
notions to get you started shopping.

This season,
look for a little fringe and feathers.The feel of these details is instant luxury. A hot look is a-symmetrical
fringe. Dresses with feathers at the
hemline, lace dresses finished with long fringe, even car wash fringe is making
a big come back. Because these styles are such a statement in and of
themselves, go simple on your shoe and accessory choices. With makeup, perhaps
a bold lip will be all you need.

The A-Line
dress, which of course is juxtaposed with the pencil dress, are the sought
after silhouettes of this holiday season. The A-line dress is one that looks
great on everyone. Timeless and elegant. Of course, because fashion is a story
of opposites, the other hot silhouette is a pencil dress.This form fitting dress is most trendy this
season when it is longer, a midi length. Know which cut is best for your
figure. Try these styles with a peep toe evening shoe bootie!

Holiday
means metallic; this season the hot metallic hue is champagne.It’s not beige, it’s not pink, and it’s a
little goldish with silver. This metallic is great for any skin tone because it
encompasses both warm and cool undertones. Other great colors for party attire
this season include deep purple and ruby red to marsala. To balance the color
is an abundance of black and white styles from high-end fashion houses. Head to
toe black and head to toe winter white is what the chicest of fashionistas will
wear this season.

70’s
inspiration is seen in fashion this season, evening and party wear is no
exception. 70’s vibe color combinations done in sequins ala Dance Fever.Think disco. Deep necklines, long blouson
sleeves and very short hemlines all harken back to when Saturday Night Fever
was a way of life. This look should be done with hair and makeup that balances
the strong look of this style. Simple hair, beachy waves might be best. With
makeup, a soft lip with strong cat-eye may be a great look for you.

Try plaid
with metallic threads. Plaid is everywhere this season, so of course holiday
collections will include a little plaid done with metallic threads. The
metallic feel will offer a glimpse of formality, while the plaid still carries
the weight of something more casual. Plaid might be a great choice for more
casual affairs on your calendars; office parties, neighborhood get together,
kids holiday programs at school. Plaid can be revved up easily with paired with
leather. Try plaid jacket with leather leggings and a peep toe shoe-boot.

Whatever
your social calendar dictates this season, don’t be afraid to infuse a little
new-trend into your holiday wardrobe. These styles aren’t going out of style
soon, so embrace a “new after-5 you”, and invest in yourself! And remember my rule of thumb in trying a new
style, “If you put it on and wonder if its right, the answer is no. If you put
it on and instantly stand up straighter and feel like you have more swing in
your hip…then the answer is YES!”

May 26, 2015

Let’s
pretend you have only a few hours to pack for a 6 day vacation. Could you do
it?

Most
of us fall into one of 2 categories when it comes to packing for a trip: we are
either a skimpy packer or an over packer. The skimpy packer is someone who is
determined to only take a carry on, and finds themselves needing a few more
pieces of clothing to get through the trip. Conversely, the over packer will
take 10 pairs of shoes for an overnight stay, ya know, just in case.

Smart
packing is something that requires practice, a little planning, and letting go
of the “what if’s”. First, for a beachy vaca start with the basics:

Walking
shorts

Leggings

Maxi skirt
(one that can be worn as a skirt or a dress)

Long sleeve
top (or layering piece)

Tank

Tunic

Sun dress

Sweater

Shirt skirt

Bathing suit

Then
add in some shoes:

A flat that
is comfortable for long days of walking

A wedge

A dressy
heel

Finally,
a few accessories:

A tote
(shopper) style bag

A clutch

Some
sunglasses

A belt

Cool
necklaces and other jewelry pieces

Yes,
those 10 pieces of clothing will in fact get you through a travel day to your
vacation destination, 6 days of sun and fun, and a travel day home. Here is how
it breaks down:

Dear Diary –
Travel Day,

I need to
wear something in layers for the flight. I am going from subzero temps to sunny
80 degrees.

Comfy USA
Black tunic tank top $65

Comfy USA
Sheer dot tee $75

Ming Wang
sweater jacket $309

Comfy USA
leggings $98

Oka B ballet
flat $45

Brighton
tote bag $315

Brighton
hoop earrings $25

Brighton
Sunglasses $90

Brighton Statement
necklace $128

Dear Diary,

My husband
told me on our first day of vacation that we will be doing some sight-seeing
and going to a nice dinner. Ugh, what to wear!

Day:

Tricotto
lace trip slip dress $79

Artex tunic
$66

Brighton
Wedge $190

Brighton
hoop earrings $25

Brighton
Sunglasses $90

Brighton
cross body bag $195

Brighton
long pendant necklace $68

Saffron and
Nutmeg short necklace $40

Night:

Tricotto
lace trip slip dress $79

Brighton
hoop earrings $25

Brighton
Sunglasses $90

Brighton
cross body bag $195

Dyables
sandal $68

Red Belt

Brighton Statement
Necklace $128

Dear Diary,

Well, it’s a new day of our
vacation. I feel like I need a little exercise, and my husband loves ancient
ruins.So as a matter of compromise
today we are going hiking. But of course, I plan on looking fashionable! Tonight
I think we are going to have a casual dinner. Maybe pizza.

Day:

Lisette Walking shorts $100

Artex tunic
$66

Brighton
long pendant necklace $68

Brighton
chain belt $95

Brighton hoop earrings $25

Brighton cross body bag $195

Brighton
Wedge $190

Night:

Lisette Walking
shorts $100

Karen Kane tunic $108

Oka B ballet flat $45

Long
turquoise necklace with earrings $89

Brighton cross body bag $195

Dear Diary,

Vacation is
going great.I am so ready for a day on
the beach, and that is what is on the agenda today. We are also going to check
out this restaurant that the concierge suggested for dinner. But again, what to
wear?

Day:

Bathing Suit

Karen Kane
animal dot skirt $88

Brighton
hoop earrings $25

Brighton
Sunglasses $90

Brighton
Wedge $190

Brighton
tote bag
$315

Brighton
long pendant necklace $68

Night:

Karen Kane animal dot skirt $88

Brighton hoop earrings $25

Red Belt

Brighton cross body bag $195

Oka B ballet flat $45

Brighton long pendant necklace $68

Saffron and Nutmeg short necklace $40

Dear Diary,

Our vacation plans today include
a little time at the spa and shopping. Tonight we are going to dinner and
dancing with some fun people we met yesterday at the beach. I think I know what
I am going to wear!

Day:

Comfy USA leggings $65

Karen Kane tunic $108

Oka B ballet flat $45

Long
turquoise necklace with earrings $89

Brighton
Sunglasses $90

Brighton
tote bag $315

Night:

Comfy USA
tunic tank $65

Comfy USA
sheet polka dot tee $75

Joseph
Ribkoff skirt $116

Dyables
sandal $68

Brighton cross body bag $195

Dear Diary,

I don’t think I want to come
home.I have enough clothes for another
week! Today I think we are going to charter a boat. Can you imagine?A full day on a chartered boat!That will surely relieve all my stress and
make me forget about the horrible weather back home. Tonight I think we are
going to just stay on the boat for dinner. Someone said something about eating
what we catch?

Day:

Bathing Suit

Joseph Ribkoff skirt $116

Brighton hoop earrings $25

Brighton Sunglasses $90

Brighton Wedge $190

Brighton tote bag $315

Saffron and Nutmeg short necklace
$40

Dear Diary,

We have a
few hours to kill before we need to catch a cab for the flight home.I plan on sipping on some fruity drinks with
umbrellas in them by the pool.

Bathing Suit

Lisette Walking
Shorts $100

Oka B ballet flat $45

Brighton cross body bag $195

Brighton hoop earrings $25

Brighton
Sunglasses $90

Dear Diary,

It’s time to
head back to reality, and catch the plane ride home. It’s been a great vacation
and I am so pleased I planned wisely. I have plenty of room in my suitcase for
all the treasures I purchased while on vacation.No “extra baggage” charges for me!

BE SURE TO VISIT MY WEBSITE!

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Kathy Friend

About Kathy

Kathy is passionate about helping you discover and cultivate your own personal style personality and professional image. She has a knack for quickly defining wardrobe frustrations, and understanding the link between image and personal (and professional) success. Her ability to explain proper fit, select the right color palate and define style makes her a valuable resource for stay-at-home-moms, corporate executives, politicians and television personalities.

Philosophy

“Style is an expression of who you are – an extension of your personality. Projecting the best image possible makes a person a better friend, spouse, parent, employee and above all – a better leader.”

Background

At the age when most young girls were dressing up their dolls, Kathy dressed up and styled her friends. Her talent for creating eye-catching looks continued throughout her high school and college years and began to include her career.

Kathy earned a Bachelors Degree from Indiana State University, and a Masters Degree from Davenport University. Her professional background includes over 20 years as a Marketing professional with specific expertise in media and advertising to reach women.

Kathy’s experience as a buyer, designer rep, advertising, marketing and social media provides her with an advantage over her competition. In 1994 she began to merge her “hobby” with her professional life; from there her entrepreneurial spirit drove her to create her own company: Kathy Friend , Image Consultant.

Awards, Certifications and Training

DCC Certified Color Expert

CIC Trained Image Consultant

Body Shape Type Expert

Individual Style Definition Certification

Psychology of Clothing and Business Certification / Expert

Dove Campaign for Beauty - facilitator

SHORE Magazine - Regional Style Icon (Chicago)

AICI - recognized Image Consultant

Kathy is one of the certified image consultants (CIC) that is part of Shari Braendel’s Fashion Meets Faith workshop team, a nationally known speaking team.

Print Media, Television and Radio

Kathy is the Fashion Editor of The Family Magazine and is a contributor to Sassy Magazine, BOOM Magazine, Michiana Man and Be The Boss Magazine.She has also written articles that have appeared in Wedding Day Magazine, and BlissfulStyle.com.Since 2009, Kathy has been the key editor of the Goodwill of Michiana’s “Goodwill Tips” blog.

In addition to writing, Kathy has been quoted in local, regional and national publications including: The Elkhart Truth, The South Bend Tribune, Tribune Business Weekly, CNN, InMichiana, and LAKE Magazine.

Since 2007 Kathy has made regular appearances as a fashion and style expert on morning news programs.She has appeared on the Fox59 Morning News Show (Indianapolis), WSJV Fox 28 Morning News Show (Elkhart), WSBT Morning Show (South Bend), and the WNDU16 Morning News (South Bend). She has also appeared on The Harvest Show and on international television via WHME-TV.From 2010 - 2012 she was heard on a weekly radio segment on WFRN’s Family Friendly Morning Show with Doug & Vincy (Elkhart).She has also been heard on B100 Radio, QMix Radio, and on PULSE FM.

Associations

Kathy is a member of:

The Junior League of South Bend, IN / Indianapolis, IN

The Bloomington (Indiana) Chamber of Commerce

National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO)

For nearly 30 years, Kathy has been an active member of her community; actively volunteering with St. Margaret’s House (South Bend, IN), Granger Community Church (Granger, IN), and offered her time and fund raising skills as a dancer for the Center for the Homeless (South Bend, IN) annual event, Dancing With Our Stars Miracle Auction.